Application Deadline: April 30th, 2021
The Robert S. McNamara Fellowship Program (RSMFP) of the world bank connects world bank research economists with aspiring development economic researchers from developing countries offering fellows the unique opportunities to participate in rigorous policy research within the World Bank’s Vice-Presidency for Development Economics (DEC). For eight months (September through May of each year) participating fellows will be housed at the World Bank in Washington, DC, and will work under the supervision of researchers from Development Research Group departments and the Development Impact Evaluation (DIME)of World Bank engaging in high-quality research projects that are policy-relevant.
Participating fellows will network with leading researchers in their field, acquire new econometric skills, and learn current research standards when they work with DEC researchers from the World Bank as well as their external academic collaborator from top universities. There will be a rare opportunity for engagement in rigorous research that is policy-relevant, broadening their perspective on the question that borders on potential development and how their research can address the challenges developing countries faces.
Requirements
For to be considered for the RSMFP, he or she must be:
1. Citizens of the member countries of the WBG of the World Bank, preferably citizens of developing countries;
2. Graduated from MA level or currently doing a Ph.D. in economics or a related field;
3. Not older than 35 years (as of June 30 of the year in which the scholarship begins);
4. Ready for relocation to Washington, DC, all through the fellowship duration.
Research programs
There is an option for the applicants to choose whether they’d like to be hosted by the Impact evaluation department or the Development Research Department of the Bank’s Vice-Presidency for Development Economics (DEC).
Selection process
For the people interested in the fellowship, the application is opened between March and April each year beginning from September of the same year. Things required to be submitted by applicants include a statement of research interests, a resume, contact details for a letter of recommendation, a code sample (optional)and a writing sample (optional. There must description and an indication of research interests and programs within the DEC in the statement of research interests presented by the fellows. The fellowship is awarded on the basis of the materials submitted for application as well as the demonstrated skills in the required software. With the formation of the cohort, a geographical and gender-specific representation will be achieved.
Key features of the program
Professional Experience: Under the direct monitoring and guidance of World Bank DEC researchers, the fellows will work on numerous World Bank projects. Also, they will be trained in the latest research practices and technologies and will take part in World Bank operations. The fellows will have the opportunity to contribute to DEC’s published work and probably co-write with DEC researchers, interact directly with World Bank clients and participate in field missions, depending on the nature of the projects.
Capacity building: At the beginning of the program, fellows receive a week of technical integration that will include training on reproducible research practices. All through the program, the fellows will participate in regular training and events to develop their skills. By working with DEC economists, fellows will improve their ability to study, identify and write about key questions on developmental policy.
Dissemination of Research Results: There will be invitations of the fellows to write a blog based on their fellowship research with DEC researchers allowing them an opportunity to showcase their contributions and research to discussions on development policy. Every year, on DEC’s Let’s Talk Development blog, the top four blogs will be published.
Compensation and benefits
For an 8-month fellowship (paid in monthly installments), the RSMFP offers competitive compensation totaling $ 42,750 net of income tax per fellows. The World Bank’s Human Resources Operations Unit will assist selected applicants in applying for a G4 visa based on the fact that fellows will be housed at the World Bank in Washington DC.
Note: The scholarship does not cover travel expenses.
The application window is open from March 1st to April 30th every year.
For more informations:
Visit the official website of the World Bank Robert S. McNamara Fellowship Program 2021/2022.
